In the notice dated Oct. 24, sanitation workers warn residents that the privatization of garbage collection would mean an increase in taxes and widespread corruption.

"Times are hard enough without having to pay taxes and high privatization fees to companies who only think of the bottom line, more money in their pockets and less services to our taxpayers," the letter reads.

Additionally, the notice asks residents to contact their local representative to voice their concerns, and lists of the names and numbers for Common Council members in each district.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 2405, which represents the sanitation workers, has been in binding arbitration with the city for two and a half years.

A sticking point in negotiations has been the inclusion of language in the contract that would give the city the right to hire an outside company for trash collection. Garbage pickup is currently under the auspices of the Department of Public Works.

Public Works Director Hal Alvord said privatizing garbage collection would save the city $750,000 in the first year alone. He said the city's 12 sanitation workers would not lose their jobs, but would rather be moved into the Highway Division.

Alvord said the letter contains numerous inaccuracies and embellishments. He added that arbitrators are expected to reach a decision on the union contract by early next year.

"This is not a done deal," he said. "We don't know what the arbitrators will decide."